UPDATE: Mayor welcomes Pride Fest

Suthers' move is a major victory for the LGBTQ community, which has long fought for official recognition of its signature event. Both Suthers' predecessors declined to offer their support for the event.

Here is the letter in full:

Mayor John Suthers

Welcome to Colorado Springs and the 25th Annual LGBTQ Pride Parade and Festival!

On behalf of the City of Colorado Springs, allow me to warmly welcome you to America’s Olympic City. We hope that you enjoy the weekend festivities at America the Beautiful Park.

During your stay, we invite you to visit the wide array of attractions the Pikes Peak region has to offer. The Garden of the Gods, United States Air Force Academy and Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, are just a few places that will help to make your stay an unforgettable one.

The City of Colorado Springs recognizes the importance of diversity in our community and appreciates your decision to hold an event in our city. Congratulations on your Silver Anniversary and best wishes for the event!

Sincerely,
John W. Suthers
Mayor

——— ORGINAL POST, TUESDAY, 11:39 A.M.——-

FILE

When the Colorado Springs Pride Center closed in January, it created a lot of uncertainty in the LGBTQ community. However, the annual Pride Fest that the center put on was never really at risk.

By the time the announcement of the closure was being made, Nic Grzecka, owner of Club Q and V Bar, had applied for 501(c)3 status for Colorado Springs Pride Fest, Inc. and was already planning this summer's event, which will take place this weekend. It will be the city's 25th Pride Fest.

This year could bring a surprising twist. The Colorado Independent reported that new Mayor John Suthers may issue a letter of support for the parade. It's worth noting, however, that Suthers has previously said that he wants the city attorney to come up with a policy on proclamations before he signs any. Suthers' predecessors, Lionel Rivera and Steve Bach, declined to issue proclamations in support of the event.

The news site says Suthers is "mostly sure he’ll issue a welcoming letter to the group organizing this weekend’s Pride parade. He has no plans to march in it and prefers to stay out of what he calls 'controversial' issues. But he’s grateful for the money the LGBTQ community will bring to the city because of the event."

Either way, the event is gearing up. The festival will take place at America the Beautiful Park on July 11th and 12th. The Pride Parade and People's March starts at 11 a.m. on July 12 at Tejon and Cimarron Streets. There will be fees this year, both for the parade and the festival. The festival is asking for $2-$5 for entrance to the festival and $5 for the People's March. Other events and opportunities have various fees. For all the information check here.